In this study, we interviewed the coordinators in community schools identified as having comparatively higher student attendance and more positive school climate than peer community schools. The coordinators reported that having clearly designated roles, reliable protocols and procedures, and a leader who consistently communicated expectations to parents and students helped ensure that community schools could maintain high attendance and a positive school climate. Alignment of goals across school and community stakeholders, supportive, respectful relationships with families, and cooperative partnerships with community-based organizations also served to make that work coherent and effective.